[No 44].

My dear Barrister.

Mr Eddis is this moment returned from the Otter sloop of War and brought a letter from Capt Squire to the Governor, a copy of it I send you. As I expected So it has turned out that the man of war was detained three or four hours and in all probability winnot be before Baltimore Town 'till seven or eight oclock in the morning. I therefore send you this express to apprize you and the Committee of Balt Town that the Otter has 18 guns, one of the Tenders six guns and 4 swivels and the other armed with swivels only. The Capt is to send a flag in to demand the ship Defence. I wish with all my heart our stores were out and the ship at the bottom of the sea. Eddis left the man of war at 4 oclock, about which time Hudson's ship was taken. The Committee of Balt Town being apprized of these particulars will take their measures accordingly. Squire behaved politely to Middleton when in distress and was he to come here in peaceable times I should be glad to shew him the Civility due to a gentleman but I think he will have better luck than I expect he will meet with if he purchases much provision in Annapolis. The Vessel burnt off the Mouth of Severn Squire says was done without order and done by an inconsiderate midshipman. She was worth but little and had only two barrels of Flour in her I believe.

Sir.

We inclose you an order for Capt [George] Stricker's Company to march down to Baltimore Town instead of coming to Annapolis if you think it necessary. When the man of war leaves Balt Town and Comes down this way you will be pleased to order them to Annapolis. Nothing new has happened since writing you last night. Stricker has already been ordered here your express may be directed to meet him.